Book of Memories for Bernard Norman Ziemski

Condolence From Conrad Sullivan

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 07:01:45 EST

Ten years late. Perhaps no one will ever see this. I graduated from Greene high school in 1982 and Mr Ziemski was my favorite teacher and for an unknown reason I decided to Google his name and this is what I found. I bothers me to know that I never let him know how much he meant to me. I will never forget Ben I hope that his surviving family and loved ones are doing well.

Story shared: The Legend

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:31:14 EST

Mr. Ziemski was always a man of mystery. He was the only teacher who consistently wore a coat and tie to school, and we respected him for that. He had this disconcerting ability to wave at you when you drove by his house, without looking at you and with his back to you. He didn't seem to associate too much with the other teachers. He would do things intentionally to upset students who were used to getting A's, made us realize we weren't as smart as we thought. You actually had to do some real work in his classes! I thought he knew everything. I was completely in awe.

Condolence From Valerie Ross

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:16:58 EST

Sorry this is so late. I didn't realize this on-line memorial was available. I was so sorry to hear about Mr. Ziemski's death. Isn't it funny that I still refer to him as "Mr. Ziemski", when I'm an old lady? I'll always think of him as my greatest teacher, and I've had a lot of teachers through the years. He taught me to read, really READ a book, taught me to write, taught me to think beyond the story, prepared me for college and a lifetime of learning. His class was always exciting because he was so unpredictable. I am so grateful that I was his student. I know that his love of literature and excellence touched many, many students in Greene and has spread into the wider world. Thanks, Mr. Ziemski.

Condolence From Mary Harrington Mills

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 22:23:52 EDT

To the family, Mr Ziemski was my favorite teacher. He made learning a challenge and made me rely on myself for the answers. He is a "legend" at GCS. You were so lucky to have him in your lives and to loan him to us for so many years. May your memories bring you smiles and even laughter. He will be missed by many, many people. But then... legends never die, they just change forms. Mary Harrington Mills Class of 68

Story shared: making the cut

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:02:37 EDT

I remember how shocked we all were when we got our grades back from our first writing assignment. Students used to getting A's were getting C's. About 20-25% of the (more well-connected) students transferred out of his class by the end of the first semester to avoid further damaging their GPA's. But those of us who stayed learned and grew with a teacher who was unlike any we had ever had before. God bless Ben Ziemski for sharing with us the gift of education. I was scared of him--but he taught me how to write.

Condolence From Kim Consagra

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 17:10:55 EDT

Dear Jill, When I heard of you Dad's passing my heart filled with sadness. I hold wonderful memories of you and our families and the friendship we all shared. We were blessed. Please know you are in my heart at this difficult time. Sincerely, Kim Consagra

Condolence From Dan Kimball

Sat, 28 Aug 2010 15:29:41 EDT

Dear Jill, It is with deep regards that I send you and your family my sympathy on the passing of your father. Although he and I had our differences many years ago, he made a lasting impression on me as well as many of his students. I hope that the past few years were good to him and that you had the opportunity to share many good times and memories together. Those will never fade and although I lost my father 30 years ago, his spirit and faith is with me always. God BLess Jill and know that you and your family are in alot of peoples prayers eventhough we are all across this country and your father was a strong and lasting influence on each and every one of us. As ALways yours across the years....Dan

Story shared: Mr Z

Sat, 28 Aug 2010 12:22:21 EDT

When I first entered English class with Mr Z, he took attendance & looked at every student when he called our name. He was trying to associate us with our siblings & his past students. When he came to "Karen Sawyer" and asked "which Sawyer are you related to?" I said Kevin, Brian & Eric. He said "good, I don't expect you to talk through class like Mark used to". Sorry Mr Ziemski, I may have only been Marks cousin, but........ Jill & Mrs Ziemski, my thoughts are with you & know your memories will ease your pain.

Condolence From Bev and Jim Consagra

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 21:33:45 EDT

Dear Kit and Jill, It was a sad day for the alumni of the Greene Central teaching faculty when we heard of Ben's passing. He was a friend who shared the same experiences as I, namely the Depression, WWII, hunting and teaching. As the Dean of Students I would visit his class from time to time, and what I saw convinced me that he was a master teacher. He will be missed but not forgotten. Kit and Jill, time is the great healer, it will not let you forget, but it will make it easier for you to remember. Sincerely, Bev and Jim Consagra

Condolence From Jim Lobdell

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 11:32:40 EDT

Ben Ziemski was the best teacher I have ever known. As a student, as a teacher myself, and as a teacher of teachers, I have encountered many fine educators, but Ben always stood out as the epitome of all that’s best in teaching. As one of his students when he first came to GCS, I was lucky to be in several more of his classes between then and my graduation in 1957. He inspired and challenged us, taught us to think critically, to analyze accepted views, and to question authority, always demanding that we work our hardest to become better students and better human beings. He didn’t just teach English and History—although he taught both brilliantly—but he also taught us as people about life and how to live. When I retired from teaching in 2007, I attended the 50th reunion of my high school graduation and went to visit Ben. During our time together, we reminisced about the teachers he called “legends of Greene Central School.” I gently reminded him that he had omitted to mention one—himself—and told him how profoundly he had affected my life and the lives of so many others. Teachers don’t always get to hear that, and I wanted to be sure he knew. Among so many other things, he helped me learn to love Shakespeare, and Hamlet’s words about his own father seem especially appropriate to Ben’s passing: “We shall not look upon his like again.” Thanks, Ben.

Condolence From Julie A. Adams

Sun, 22 Aug 2010 15:17:40 EDT

Please accept my deepest condolences. Mr. Ziemski had my father, aunt, sisters and I. I remember many things from his class, but three are prominent. One, I thought it was cool that he had been teaching for so long that he had my father and my aunt. Two, I still remember the papers he made me write, one that I particularly hated (and I was the only one to have this topic) was on nuclear war between the US and Russia. He would be surprised at how much I have to write every day as a university professor, but it is technical writing, he would give me an F. Third, he would open the windows in winter because if we were cold, we would be paying attention and learn more. When my students complain that a classroom is too cold, I tell them that it is good for them just like he did. I also recall that I was not allowed to complain about Mr. Ziemski's class at my grandparent's (Reid and Elaine) house because they considered Mr. and Mrs. Ziemski to be close friends. I may have felt that his class was too hard at the time, but I definitely learned something from him. Over the last 25 years, I have learned that you are a good teacher if you challenge the students so much that they say your class is too hard! Julie A. Adams - GCS 1985

Condolence From Mary (Morrissey) Bart

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 17:40:47 EDT

I was fortunate enough to have Mr. Ziemski as a teacher for both 11th and 12th grade English. He was always one of my favorite teachers – even though I probably had to work harder and think more critically in his classes than I did in any other class in high school or even college. He saw potential in me as a writer, and encouraged me to continue developing my writing skills. Sometimes this “encouragement” was in the form of extra assignments which for some reason never counted as extra credit, but that’s another story! I often wondered if he knew I became a journalist, but knowing him he probably did. Anyone who’s sat in his class while he distributed books no doubt remembers how he could look at the names of previous students who had any book and somehow be able to say exactly where they were and what they were doing. Even 25 years later, when I think about the books we read in Mr. Z’s classes, I can see and hear him describing critical passages and explaining their significance. He was a dedicated teacher and amazing person who taught his students many important lessons about literature and life. We’re all better people for having known him. Mary (Morrissey) Bart GCS Class of ‘86

Condolence From K. Norma Bittinger

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 22:53:27 EDT

Dear Jill, I'm in Greene visiting my Mom, and just heard about your Dad. I don't know if I ever told you just how much I loved and respected your Dad, but I think part of the person I am today is because of him. I will remember him always, and hold you in my heart and thoughts.

Condolence From Dawn Weir

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 14:52:47 EDT

Dear Jill, I'm so sorry to hear of your father's passing. He was a wonderful man in so many ways. I'm glad I had the opportunity to meet him, and my respect grew every time you spoke of him, sharing his pearls of wisdom and insight. He was also funny, and thank goodness he passed that on to you, the apple of his eye. I'm sure his warmth and love will always be with you, reminding you of your unique and exceptional relationship. Love and best healing wishes to you, your mom, Lisa, and family. Dawn

Condolence From Ken Lyles

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 18:26:57 EDT

To Mrs. Ziemski and Jill, I was sorry to hear about Mr. Z's passing. I too can't believe he was 87! I'll always remember how he challenged his students. His class was always one to look forward to because you never knew what he was going to throw our way. His class was not one that you could breeze through. We seemed to know you personally Jill, as he talked of you often. I respected him greatly and Greene was certainly lucky to have him on the faculty for so many years. I offer you my sincere condolences. Ken Lyles Greene Central Class of 1981

Condolence From Cindy (Dunlap) Lee

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 11:53:25 EDT

Dear Jill, Your father was an inspiration, an effective educator. With the passage of time, recollection of classes with him continues to make me smile and yearn for that structure again. Know that my thoughts are with you. I am sorry for your loss. Cindy (Dunlap) Lee

Condolence From Amy Short

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 10:15:11 EDT

Dear Kit - I was so sorry to hear of your (and our) loss and wanted to tell you again what a special teacher I thought Mr. Z was. I thought when I made him that birthday cake all those years ago that I was doing HIM a favor - and he turned it around and made it all about me. He was a special man and there are so many who will remember him always.

Condolence From Nancy (Say) Hewes class of 1972

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 20:15:53 EDT

I am very sad to hear of Mr. Ziemski’s passing. I can honestly say that he was my most, favorite teacher, ever. He made learning a challenge and a pleasure. He gave us English Literature with life to it and showed how it related to our own lives. We were unknowingly exposed to college level critical thinking, ethics, and philosophy. I remember his love of tennis, his walks on the nature trail behind “the school on the hill” and the colorful story when his car lost the battle with a deer on Kattelville Hill. During visits with Mr. and Mrs. Ziemski over the years, we have discussed many of the students he had and his pride in their achievements, family, politics, why golf is a “good walk spoiled” and “How can people live in Arizona?” I will miss those chats; I will miss his dry humor and intelligence, his goodness and his grace. Mrs. Ziemski and Jill, I am deeply sorry for you loss. May your memories bring you solace.

Condolence From Jean Marie (Delaney) Haskell

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:01:13 EDT

I am sorry to hear about Mr. Ziemski. I really enjoyed having him as a teacher in school and he helped me through some tough times after my accident. He always had a lot of insight to offer us. He was young in spirit and its hard to believe he could be 87 years old. My thoughts are with you and your family.

Condolence From Arlene (Smith) Hertzog

Sun, 15 Aug 2010 13:12:45 EDT

To all: As an educator, you can only hope to impact your students and maybe inspire a few. Mr. Ziemski did so much more than that. He inspired us all to be better than we hoped to be. He impressed upon us all to not only embrace the written word but understand and appreciate it. His love of words with their power to influence, to move our emotions and our thoughts were his gift to every student he had. I wish I could say I became an educator because of him but I can say he influenced me towards that route. I only hope that I impact at least one student as much as he impacted all that had him as a teacher in Greene. We have lost a great one. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.

Condolence From Rose Marie (Jackson) Bailer

Sat, 14 Aug 2010 17:37:28 EDT

Jill and family, I wish to offer my sincerest condolences at the loss of your dad. He was agreat teacher and a friend as I often saw him on return visits to my parents after my life took my to Onondaga Cty. Sincerely, Rose Marie Jackson Bailer GCS '66

Condolence From Ann Lipsitt

Sat, 14 Aug 2010 11:56:33 EDT

I am so sorry to hear about your dad's passing, Jill. You and he had a very, very special relationship and your loss is deep. You always spoke of him so reverently and with such emotion. I am sure this will continue and your memories will be what last forever in your mind and in print, as I know you have written often about him and your experiences together. Reading messages from his former students was a treat. Take care of yourself and Lisa and your mom, the comfort you get from those around you is priceless, the laughter and joy from telling stories will help with keeping your dad alive and in your minds and hearts. With care and love, Ann

Condolence From Janice Cook

Sat, 14 Aug 2010 02:24:18 EDT

I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Ziemski's passing. My condolences are with his family, and my prayers are with him, his family and friends. Mr. Ziemski was my English teacher in 1958, my senior year. (I had moved to Greene from Michigan that year.) I had great respect for him, and worked hard to get good marks. It was always interesting to find out what he had in store for us on any given day. He made Shakespeare interesting, and stumped us with his questions. He played the devil's advocate many times, and really got the class going. I enjoyed my time with him, and I learned so much. I am amazed to read of his accomplishments; what a wonderful life he developed for he and his family, and doing what he loved to do, at that! Not many can say this. I think we can be happy knowing he lived a long life and touched so many people with his wit, wisdom and kindness. His memory will live on for all who knew him.

Condolence From Cynsie Smith Kraines

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 20:17:04 EDT

I graduated in the class of '67 and Mr. Ziemski was sort of my personal hero. He pushed us to be the best possible version ourselves and held us to the highest of standards, but nothing higher than what he was willing to do himself. I called him a couple of years ago to say thank you for all he did. How glad I am today that I did that. There is a lot of sadness in our class on hearing this news. My deepest condolences for your loss.

Condolence From jackie lomazzo

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 18:23:42 EDT

Dear Jill, I was sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad. I know how close you two were and how difficult his passing is for you. I always enjoyed listening to the stories you shared with your students about your Dad. Every year you shared the 'gift of writing' piece about the sledding outing. Recalling that time with your Dad always made you smile. It made me smile too. My thought and prayers are with you, Lisa, and your Mom. Please know that I keep all of you in my heart and pray that you continue to share wonderful memories of your Dad. Love, Jackie

Memorial Candle lit by Bryan A. Pierce

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 18:16:59 EDT

Bryan Pierce, class of 1970

Condolence From Jeff Rickenbach

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 16:17:53 EDT

As one of the last classes having the honor to be taught "life" by Mr. Z at Greene, his influence still persists in my life. It is ironic that within the past day or two I was telling my wife about his class, after seeing a Solzhenitsyn book. It was difficult trying to explain that if he liked you, that you did twice the work of everyone else! I owe it to him for suggesting that I "investigate" the US Naval Academy instead of a normal college. I continue to serve the nation, in a reserve capacity, after 22 years. I do still owe him one last assignment. He stated that you view the world differently after seeing where your ancestors came from. In this case, I have done the research and still hope to make the trip to a small Swiss village. My prayers are with you, Mrs. Z and Jill. Jeff Rickenbach

Condolence From Bill Collins

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 13:09:23 EDT

Ben Ziemski was by far the best teacher I ever had in any class, high school or university. Huckleberry Finn came alive in his deft hand. And he was the one who made the audacious presumption that I should attend Middlebury College - which I did and for which I am forever grateful. I am just sorry that my plan to see him over the Labor Day weekend will not happen. I know that "death proffereth unto every confident believer the cup that is life indeed" and I know that life will be even more abundant. I am sure he is giving advice to the Almighty already...

Condolence From The Pavlovich Family

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 22:46:07 EDT

Dear Kit, We have been thinking of you. Ben will be greatly missed. We will always remember visiting while on walks with the children. -The Pavlovich Family (Mike, Denise, Marissa and Maddie)

Condolence From Barbara Feringa Tallett

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 18:39:55 EDT

I was so sad to see on FB that Mr.Ziemski had passed away. More than teaching English, I feel he taught life. I am glad I got to know him and he will never be forgotten. There will always be a special place in my heart for him. He was an extra-ordinary teacher and man in my book. Rest in Peace Mr.Ziemski, and may your family find comfort knowing you touched so many peoples lives.

Condolence From David John Jones, Jr.

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 18:16:12 EDT

Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss. Mr. Ziemski was a true gentleman and his legacy will continue to inspire the countless people he tirelessly and selflessly motivated to think throughout his epic teaching career and beyond. Mr. Z has come up in conversations with family members, friends, colleagues and my own students . . . even 25 years after having him as my 11th grade English teacher. Thank you, Mr. Z for having confidence in my abilities and pushing me to be my very best . . . R.I.P.

Condolence From Shiela Savory-Walker

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 17:46:50 EDT

I was truly saddened to find Mr. Ziemski's obituary listed in the local paper this afternoon. As a 1984 graduate of Greene Central School, I can honestly say that I always admired Mr. Ziemski and have held fond memories of him over the years. As a current resident of Greene, I've enjoyed seeing him out for walks, or just to get the mail, as I drove past his house from the elementary schools in the morning. As a high school student it was very evident to me that your husband and father cared about others. Although he seemed strict to some students, I could tell that he was concerned for his students too. I could tell that he was patriotic and could certainly see that he loved literature. Over the years since I graduated I have repeated a phrase to myself every now and then that Mr. Ziemski introduced me to. It was one of the few pieces of literature that I actually memorized, and it gave me chills today when I read it at the end of his obituary. Mr. Ziemski, the road you traveled was long and well-lived and I thank you for the difference you made in my life!

Condolence From Laura White-Warren

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 17:01:08 EDT

Mr. Ziemski is one teacher that will never be forgotten. My condolences to his family. Laura White-Warren GCS Class of 1986

Story shared: I laugh about this now, but...

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 14:46:40 EDT

The third day of 10th grade Mr. Ziemski threw me out of his class (actually, I was in the doorway, but had been clowning with someone in the hallway when the bell rang). He immediately directed me to the guidance office for reassignment. I sat in Lu Wilson’s office and cried buckets. Not only had I never, EVER been kicked out of a classroom, but I had so looked forward to taking this already-legendary teacher’s class. Now I’d blown it. Mrs. Wilson handed me her box of tissues, patiently (and repeatedly) telling me not to worry; just go back into his class the next day and pretend it never happened. I was petrified, but I said OK. It was one of the best things I ever did. He taught so much more than a class. There is no standard of measure for all that I learned from him and continue to carry with me. Respect in his classroom was mutual, but earned. Much of the time the “lesson” had nothing to do with the previous assignment, but with learning to think and articulate. I was taught to embrace the written word, reason, diversity, instinct, laughter, hard work, family and life. The compassion he showed me when our mother died warms my heart to this day. His, and Mrs. Ziemski’s, kindness, friendship and support over the years since high school have been a gift. Mrs. Z., Jill and your beautiful family, please know that you are all in my thoughts. I celebrate a life very well-lived.

Condolence From John Pedrin

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 10:55:23 EDT

Jill, So sorry....I know the special place your dad had in your heart. Take comfort in the wonderful memories...they will be with you forever.Give my best to your entire family..

Story shared: "B Z" was a special teacher for me.

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 23:27:35 EDT

He made me sit in the front row.I closed my eyes to often when I was in the back.I didn't like reading all those paperbacks.I did read a couple.He gave me a passing grade I probably didn't deserve.After I graduated and returned from the service he used to come in to where I worked.We talked about those times. I'll miss that and him.

Condolence From David Tisdell

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 21:15:37 EDT

Hi Jill, I am so sorry to hear of you father's passing. I have been out of town and just got back to hear the sad news. He was part of "The Greatest Generation"; a most unusual group of men and women. They were a brilliant shining light for our country and sadly, the lights of that generation are winking out far too fast. My thoughts and prayers are with you an your family. Dave

Condolence From Cate Lamb

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 17:39:18 EDT

Jill and family, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you. Love always, Cate Lamb

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Condolence From cheryl wexelblatt

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 20:45:43 EDT

Connie and I send our deepest condolences to the Ziemski family. Jill, I know how much your dad influenced your life, and your teaching. I so enjoyed his comments when we would tell him the tales of BRMS and 5th grade. Lisa and you did such a beautiful job in making both your parents comfortable and a part of the Vermont community. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Cheryl Wexelblatt

Condolence From jane lester

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 19:47:59 EDT

jill,lisa,and mrs.ziemski. I am sorry for your loss,it's not easy to lose a loved one.you are in my thoughts and prayers..love jane

Condolence From Tammy Charbonneau & Barb Puls

Sun, 08 Aug 2010 18:15:33 EDT

Our sincere condolences on the loss of your husband, father and friend. There are no words to express our sympathies. I know for sure he is very PROUD of you all as you continue your daily routines. These routines may never be the same again, yet the end result will be just as amazing as always. We love you!

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Condolence From A. W. Rich Funeral Home

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 13:11:43 EDT

The entire staff of A. W. Rich Funeral Home wishes to express our deepest sympathy to you and your entire family.

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